Using contrast enhanced mammography to lower unnecessary breast biopsies.

Contrast Enhanced Mammography (CEM) to Reduce Biopsy Rates for Less Than Highly Suspicious Breast Abnormalities: a Prospective Study

NIH-funded research University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10991807

This study is looking at how a special type of mammogram called contrast enhanced mammography (CEM) can help doctors better identify breast lumps that might not be cancer, so patients can avoid unnecessary biopsies and feel less anxious about their results.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pittsburgh, United States)
Project IDNIH-10991807 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of contrast enhanced mammography (CEM) to improve the accuracy of breast cancer detection, specifically for lesions that are classified as having a low probability of malignancy. By utilizing new BI-RADS assessment categories, the study aims to better classify breast abnormalities and reduce the number of benign biopsies performed. Patients undergoing diagnostic evaluations for breast lesions rated as 4A or 4B may receive a CEM, which could provide clearer insights into whether a biopsy is necessary. The goal is to enhance the decision-making process for radiologists and ultimately reduce anxiety and unnecessary procedures for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who have been recalled for diagnostic evaluation of breast lesions classified as BI-RADS 4A or 4B.

Not a fit: Patients with highly suspicious breast abnormalities or those already diagnosed with breast cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the number of unnecessary breast biopsies, leading to less anxiety and fewer invasive procedures for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to improve diagnostic accuracy, suggesting that this approach may also yield beneficial results.

Where this research is happening

Pittsburgh, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.